Committee to debate allotments report

20 October 2010

The National Assembly for Wales will today (20 October) debate the findings of a report that examined the provision of allotments in Wales.

The report from the Assembly’s Sustainability Committee called on the Welsh Government to review the existing legislation for allotments to make sure it is relevant to Wales in the 21st century and, if necessary, seek the required powers from Westminster to amend it.

It also highlighted concerns that there are no accurate records available of allotment supply and demand, with council waiting lists not accurately representing levels of interest.

A lack of funding available to people wanting to develop more community growing spaces and difficulties with land provision and planning permissions were other concerns of the report.

Chair of the Committee, Kirsty Williams AM, said: “This was an important inquiry that highlighted a number of obstacles preventing individuals and communities from enjoying the benefits of keeping an allotment.

“I look forward to hearing what my fellow Assembly Members have to say on the matter this afternoon.”